If you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to go to nursing school then you have some great options. Many people choose to switch careers throughout their lifetime, and nursing is a popular career choice due to the competitive pay, flexible schedule, and health benefits.
In this article, I am going to give you information on how to go back to school and earn a nursing degree if you already have a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, I am going to discuss program options, how long it will take you, and the most common requirements.
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Program Options for going to Nursing School
You have two options for earning your nursing degree if you already hold a bachelor’s degree and they include:
- Associates degree program (ADN): This will take you two years to complete (compared to 4 years with a traditional bachelor’s degree program BSN). However, please note that although an ADN and BSN nursing degree both allow you to work as a registered nurse there are some differences. See the differences between the ADN & BSN degree here.
- Second Degree/Accelerated Degree program: This is your best option! This program allows you to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) in 1 ½ – 2 years (compared to the traditional 4 years). These programs are being highly popular because of the demand of people who are pursuing nursing as a second career. The best way to find a second degree or accelerated degree program (the name is interchanged) is to look at local nursing schools in your area and see if they have this type of program. Here is a list of nursing school by states.
The second degree/accelerated degree programs take approximately 5 semesters to complete, and sometimes a semester is during the summer. However, it is important to note that it could take an extra semester if you haven’t met the nursing programs pre-requisite course requirements. For example, say your bachelor’s degree is in English and you didn’t take Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2 or Microbiology while earning your English degree. You would have to complete these classes before you enter into the nursing program.
Other Requirements:
- GPA 2.0-3.0
- C or better in the required pre-requisite courses
- Pass an entrance exam (typically HESI A2 or ATI TEAS exam)
- Submit health requirements (physical, vaccines, etc)
- Proof of your current bachelor’s degree
- Letter of Recommendation
- Clean criminal record
Conclusion
Second degree/accelerated programs are awesome options for people who want to be a nurse that already hold a bachelor’s degree. They are faster to earn which saves time and money.
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